Scifidelity

Thanks for reply. After researching a some other flat bed commercial machines, it does seem #69 thread is a common minimum. I think I can make that size work for my pieces.

Thanks for the info. I want a flatbed for my second machine. Eventually I'll replace the Outlaw with an electric cylinder arm.

Thank you for the detailed reply and insight! I'm glad you mentioned the 9 coils. I read about coil count making a big difference and forgot about it. The 1541s seems like the gold standard. It came up in my research, but I didn't want to spend that much. You're right though, buy once, cry once. for $400 more than my budget, it's probably worth it. I wrote the 1181 off because it doesn't have a triple feed and can't handle 138 thread.

I have a Cowboy Outlaw. I love it, but need a machine that can handle thinner thread for small leather goods. I've done a couple of card cases, wallets, etc. on it and the items end up looking too rustic with 207 thread. I tried setting the machine up with 138 and it hated it. Anyway, that's not the point of the post. I started researching some flat bed machines and it seems like a machine in the $1200 range would suffice, but I don't want to outgrow it in 4 years. I would be happy to get one in good used condition, but they seem hard to come by and shipping usually wipes most of the savings. not to mention the uncertainly of working order. I am looking at machines like the Consew 206RB. From what I've read, it's built to last decades and is relatively simple to use. However, it seems like many people go with 441 based machines. Are there cobra and/ or cowboy machines I should consider? Other makes/ models? Both of those makes have dizzyingly large product ranges. I can't justify nor afford the ultra high end German machines. Thanks for your help. A bit about the intended use: -Hobby level+. meaning in the near future, I may start selling at local markets. regardless, the machine won't be used all day like in a true production environment. -Flat materials, 3/8" max material thickness is fine. -Thread size 46 (maybe just 69) to 138 thread. No need to go above 138 thread since my Cowboy Outlaw can pick it up from there. I don't think I'll need to smaller than 46. Machine features I know I want -powered reverse with adjustable reverse stitch length -wide range of stitch length -safety disengage clutch to prevent losing timing -Speed reducer -Brushless Servo Motor -lift lock for walking foot -compound walking foot -temporary lift lever -110V -what else should I consider must haves? Undecided on: -needle positioner -arm length. I do work on some larger pieces. -size of motor. I think the standard 500-550 is enough, but am unsure.

Howdy folks. New guy here. I've been doing leatherwork as a hobby for about 3 years. Context: I have a Cowboy Outlaw machine. I mostly use size 207 thread, but also have 277 and 138, but the Outlaw doesn't like 138 much. I just finished up my first purse. I used size 207 thread. Question: I'd like to hear detailed tips on how to best execute external seams on bags. I tried all three walking feet (double toe, left toe only, right toe only) and really struggled to keep the two pieces of leather aligned. I tried gluing them, I tried seam tape, etc. I'm open to anything except doing it by hand . I'm also not going to buy a post bed machine with a presser wheel, YET.

I don't do tooling, but IMO, one of the best things a beginner (which I still consider myself to be) can do is spend hours researching the different types of leather tanning, coloring, finishing, etc.